The floor plan forms the basis for how you will live your life in your new home. It is important to consider how you plan to use your home, and what your current home may be lacking that an improved floor plan may solve. The floor plan you choose will also be dictated by your budget and the lot you choose. While this may sound stressful, your builder and agent can help guide you through this process.
Consider Your Lifestyle
The layout of your home will be most dependent on the size of your household and your lifestyle. When considering the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, consider factors such as whether you have frequent guests, and whether you plan to expand your household in the future.
When thinking about additional living spaces, consider your lifestyle and interests. Do you need a home office? If you work from home, a quiet space for your home office may be essential. Are you an exceptional cook? You may require a larger-than-average kitchen and additional storage like a pantry.
Common Floor Plans
- Open-concept floor plans are great for families who love to entertain, as they allow for easy flow and communication between rooms. However, they can be noisy and may lack privacy.
- Split-level floor plans offer more separation between living spaces and can provide additional privacy, but can also make it more difficult for people with mobility issues.
- Traditional floor plans offer clearly defined spaces for each activity but can feel closed off and may not be as flexible for changing needs.
- Ranch-style floor plans are great for families who want a single-level home with no stairs but can be limiting in terms of space and may not offer as much privacy.
Features like a first-floor primary suite can provide several benefits, including convenience, privacy, and the ability to age in place.
By considering these factors, you can ensure that the home you build will meet your household’s needs and make daily life more comfortable and enjoyable.
Consider the Lot
The design and layout of the home can be greatly impacted by the size, shape, and orientation of the lot. Consider how the placement of rooms and windows may take advantage of natural light and views.
The climate and natural surroundings of the area also impact what may be desired or required in a floor plan. In colder climates, a floor plan that allows for maximum insulation may be preferable, while in warmer climates, a floor plan that promotes natural ventilation and shading may be more suitable.
Consider Your Budget
A more complex floor plan may be more expensive to build than a simple, straightforward layout. It is important to consider the long-term costs of maintenance and utilities as well, as certain floor plans may require more upkeep or have higher energy costs.
Consider Working with a New Construction Specialist
Choosing an agent who is familiar with new construction can make the floor plan selection process a breeze. A new construction specialist is familiar with common layouts and is up to date on the latest trends. They can help you identify floor plans that will work with your lifestyle and may even help you communicate with your builder regarding modifications. If you have yet to choose a lot, they can offer assistance in figuring out which lots will work best with the floor plans you like.
The floor plan you choose will dictate how you end up using your home. While it might seem like an arduous undertaking, considering your lifestyle, your lot, and your budget will help you choose the right floor plan for you. Working with a new construction specialist will give you an experienced agent to assist you along the way.
